The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and the state of Maine have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to coordinate procedures and schedules for review of tidal energy projects off the coast of Maine.
Wednesday’s MOU is the first of its kind on the East Coast; FERC has signed two similar agreements with Oregon and Washington.
The MOU ensures that FERC and Maine will undertake all efforts in an environmentally sensitive manner, while taking into account economic and cultural concerns.
“Today’s agreement is an important step to pursuing hydrokinetic technologies on the East Coast,” FERC Chairman Jon Wellinghoff said. “This commitment by Maine to develop renewable energy sources puts us well on our way to move these new technologies forward and bring benefits to consumers.”
Ocean Renewable Power Company is one of the companies to watch for tidal developments of the coast of Maine. The company received funding from the Maine Technology Institute in 2007 and reportedly plans to continue testing of its tidal power system in the Bay of Fundy later this year.
Maine Governor John Baldacci recently signed legislation to improve the permiting process for offshore wind projects. Maine also hopes to host a federally funded offshore wind project and a national center for research and development of offshore wind technology.
Loading...